Nissan Murano 52 body: Complete repair and maintenance manual

Many car enthusiasts are looking for information about the so-called “52 body” Nissan Murano, but here lies frequent confusion in the numbering of generations. Officially, the model, which is often mistakenly called the 52nd body, has the index Z52 and is the third generation of the crossover, produced from 2015 to 2020. This particular car combines futuristic design, powerful engines and advanced safety systems, becoming a real hit on the secondary market.

Understanding the technical nuances of this particular generation is critical for proper maintenance and operation. Unlike its predecessor Z51, model Z52 received an updated platform, improved noise insulation and a number of modifications to the suspension, which significantly affected the service life of the components. When choosing a used vehicle, you need to pay special attention to the condition of the variator and the operation of the all-wheel drive system, since these units require a specific approach to diagnostics.

In this article we will look at all the key aspects of ownership. Nissan Murano Z52: from technical characteristics to real problems faced by owners. You will learn what to look for during inspection, how to properly maintain the transmission and what nuances the All Mode 4x4-i all-wheel drive system has. The information will help you avoid costly mistakes when purchasing or renovating.

History of appearance and design features of the Z52 platform

The third generation of the crossover, which received the factory index Z52, was presented to the general public in 2014 at the New York Auto Show. The designers relied on bold shapes, abandoning the usual angular lines in favor of smooth curves that give the car the appearance of a premium SUV. It was this appearance that became the calling card of the model, distinguishing it from more conservative competitors.

The design is based on the D-Class platform, which has been extensively upgraded to increase body rigidity and reduce weight. Engineers used high-strength steel at critical points in the frame to improve handling without sacrificing comfort. Body rigidity torsion increased by 30% compared to the previous generation, which directly affected the car’s behavior on the track.

Particular attention during development was paid to aerodynamics. The vehicle's profile is optimized to minimize air resistance, resulting in lower fuel consumption and reduced noise at high speeds. Double-glazed windows and active noise insulation make the interior Z52 one of the quietest in the class.

Engines and transmission: what the owner needs to know

Depending on the market, Nissan Murano Z52 was equipped with various power units, but the most popular in our country remains the gasoline engine of the VQ35DE series. This 3.5-liter V6 produces 249 hp. It is highly reliable, but requires high-quality fuel and regular oil changes. Its design has been proven for decades, but the service life of the piston group directly depends on operating conditions and quality of maintenance.

With the transmission the situation is more subtle. The car is equipped with a Jatco CVT JF016E (RE0F11A) variator, which has its own characteristics. This unit is designed for high torque, but is sensitive to overheating. Torque converter The variator must be in perfect condition, otherwise even a new box will quickly fail. Many owners are faced with the problem of premature wear of the chain drive during aggressive driving.

To ensure cross-country ability, the All Mode 4x4-i all-wheel drive system is used. It automatically redistributes torque between the axles, providing better traction. Under normal conditions, the car is front-wheel drive, but when slipping, the rear axle engages instantly. It is important to understand that transfer case This system does not have a hard lock, which limits its capabilities in serious off-road conditions.

Owners should remember the need to regularly change the oil in the variator. The replacement interval should be halved from that stated by the manufacturer, especially if the car is used in the city. Ignoring this rule often leads to expensive repairs or complete replacement of the unit.

Typical faults and weaknesses of the model

Despite the high reliability, Nissan Murano Z52 is not devoid of characteristic problems characteristic of many Japanese crossovers of its time. One of the most common problems is the failure of the crankshaft and camshaft position sensors. Symptoms include sudden engine stopping or difficulty starting, especially in wet weather. It is better to replace these sensors as a set using original spare parts.

The crossover suspension is comfortable, but has its weak points. The silent blocks of the front levers may begin to “creak” or collapse after 80-100 thousand kilometers. The rear multi-link suspension also requires attention: the anti-roll bar bushings are a consumable item that often requires replacement. Steering rack may start knocking due to wear on the bushings, which can be eliminated by replacing the repair kit.

The air conditioning system also deserves attention. The air conditioning compressor may fail due to a freon leak or problems with the electromagnetic clutch. In addition, in winter, drainage pipes often become clogged, which leads to the accumulation of condensation and the appearance of mold in the cabin. Regular cleaning of the ventilation system will help avoid this problem.

Vehicle electronics may malfunction, especially in the multimedia system control units. The screen may freeze or stop responding to touches, which is often solved by flashing the software. In some cases, the control unit itself may need to be replaced. It is important to monitor the condition of the battery, as when it is discharged, errors in the operation of electronic systems may occur.

Maintenance and operation: important nuances

Proper maintenance is the key to a long life for your car. For the VQ35DE engine it is critical to use oil with a viscosity 5W-30 or 0W-20 (depending on the climate) and change it every 7-8 thousand kilometers. Using low-quality oil will lead to coking of hydraulic compensators and phase shifters. It is also worth monitoring the oil level, since the engine can consume it when the oil scraper rings wear out.

The variator requires special care. The oil in it must be changed by a complete replacement using a device, since a conventional partial replacement does not remove wear products from the valve body. Use only original oil NS-3 or certified analogues. Overheating of the variator is the main enemy, so when actively driving or towing a trailer, you need to monitor the temperature of the transmission.

The all-wheel drive system also requires maintenance. The oil in the rear gearbox and transfer case should be changed every 60-80 thousand kilometers. Ignoring this procedure may result in gear and bearing wear. In addition, it is necessary to monitor the condition of the rear axle coupling, which can jam during prolonged use without changing the oil.

The car body is well protected from corrosion, but in areas of high humidity (sills, arches) it is worth carrying out additional anti-corrosion treatment. The paintwork is quite soft, so chips and scratches quickly appear on it. It is recommended to use protective films on the hood and bumpers.

Choosing a used Nissan Murano Z52: what to look for

When buying a used crossover Nissan Murano Z52 The first step is to carry out computer diagnostics. It will show the presence of hidden errors in control units, the history of oil changes and the status of sensors. Pay special attention to CVT error codes: even a single failure can indicate serious problems. Don't be shy about asking the seller to show the car's service history.

The visual inspection should include checking the condition of the suspension on the lift. Pay attention to the presence of oil leaks from the gearboxes and transfer case. Spin the wheels to hear any noise coming from the wheel bearings. Check the operation of all electronics: power windows, climate control, multimedia system and driver assistance systems. Any feature that doesn't work can be negotiable.

A test drive is required. Try accelerating the car from a standstill to evaluate the smooth operation of the variator. There should be no jerking, kicking or delay when changing gears. Listen to the engine: it should run smoothly, without extraneous noise or vibration. Test the all-wheel drive by driving on a dirt road or snow, if the time of year permits.

Pay special attention to the condition of the interior. The leather on the seats can wear out, especially in the driver's seat. Check the operation of all buttons on the steering wheel and instrument panel. The multimedia system should work quickly, without freezing. Pay attention to the condition of the ceiling and door trims - the presence of stains or mold may indicate problems with the tightness of the body.